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BREAKING: New Orleans Saints Owner Gayle Benson Makes Bold Move, Appoints New Manager and Head Coach After Controversial

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BREAKING: New Orleans Saints Owner Gayle Benson Makes Bold Move, Appoints New Manager and Head Coach After Controversial Tenure of Mickey Loomis and Darren Rizzi

In a bold and surprising move, New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson has made sweeping changes to the franchise’s leadership structure, announcing the appointment of a new General Manager and head coach in a bid to restore the team’s competitive edge. After a series of controversies surrounding the tenure of Mickey Loomis and the underperformance of Darren Rizzi, Benson has decided that a new direction was needed to guide the Saints back to prominence. This development has sent shockwaves throughout the NFL, as the Saints look to reboot and regain their place as one of the league’s elite franchises.

Benson’s decision to make major leadership changes follows a period of stagnation for the Saints, who have struggled to find their identity since the retirement of long-time quarterback Drew Brees. Loomis, who had been with the team for nearly two decades, was instrumental in bringing success to New Orleans, including the 2009 Super Bowl championship. However, recent years have seen a series of missed opportunities, questionable roster moves, and an inability to rebuild effectively after Brees’ departure. As the Saints enter a new era, Gayle Benson has taken a decisive step to address the franchise’s issues head-on.

Mickey Loomis and Darren Rizzi’s Controversial Tenure

Mickey Loomis has long been one of the most influential figures in New Orleans, serving as the Saints’ General Manager and Executive Vice President. While Loomis’ tenure brought success, including a Super Bowl victory and numerous playoff appearances, his performance in recent years had come under fire. The team’s struggles to find a successor to Brees at quarterback, as well as roster mismanagement, particularly in terms of salary cap flexibility, left the Saints with little room to maneuver in free agency and the draft.

Loomis’ decision to take on Jameis Winston, Andy Dalton, and Taysom Hill as quarterbacks post-Brees, without committing to a long-term solution, has been heavily scrutinized. The Saints’ offensive struggles in 2022 and 2023 further exacerbated the perception that the front office had lost its way. Loomis, who had once been regarded as one of the NFL’s best executives, had increasingly become a lightning rod for criticism, with many questioning his ability to rebuild a team without Brees at the helm.

Meanwhile, Darren Rizzi, the team’s special teams coordinator, found himself under fire for his inability to elevate the performance of one of the most crucial yet often overlooked areas of the game. Despite a solid start to his tenure, Rizzi’s special teams unit failed to deliver when needed most, with consistent mistakes in coverage, field position, and missed kicks undermining the team’s overall efforts. While special teams are not always the focal point of a franchise’s performance, Rizzi’s failure to significantly improve this unit led to his eventual dismissal.

As a result, Gayle Benson decided that it was time for a major overhaul—one that would allow the Saints to rebuild with a fresh, clear vision.

A Handshake Deal with Sean Payton: The New General Manager

In a surprising turn of events, Gayle Benson has reached a handshake deal with Sean Payton to return to the Saints organization, but in a new role as General Manager. Payton, who led the Saints to their only Super Bowl title in 2009 and became the franchise’s most successful coach, left New Orleans after the 2021 season. His departure marked the end of an era for the Saints, as Payton’s leadership had been integral to the team’s sustained success over more than a decade.

Now, in a dramatic move that no one saw coming, Payton will return to the organization, but this time in a managerial capacity. As General Manager, Payton will have full control over roster decisions, the draft, and overall team strategy. This role will allow Payton to exercise his football acumen in a way that is distinct from his previous role as head coach. He will be tasked with rebuilding the team’s roster, managing the salary cap, and overseeing the long-term direction of the franchise.

The timing of Payton’s return could not be more critical for the Saints. Despite a talented roster that includes defensive standouts like Cam Jordan and Marshon Lattimore, as well as a solid foundation on offense, the team has struggled to find a consistent identity since Brees’ departure. Payton’s expertise in building a championship-contending team will be a welcome addition to a franchise looking to return to prominence in the NFC.

Payton’s Leadership and Vision

Payton’s return to the Saints comes with high expectations. His leadership and strategic brilliance as a coach were evident during his 15-year tenure as head coach, where he consistently fielded high-powered offenses and brought stability to a franchise that was once in disarray following Hurricane Katrina.

As General Manager, Payton will focus on the following priorities:

Finding the Franchise Quarterback

One of the biggest challenges Payton will face is solving the quarterback dilemma. Drew Brees’ retirement in 2021 left a massive void, and since then, the Saints have been unable to find a long-term solution at the position. Jameis Winston, Andy Dalton, and Taysom Hill have all had their moments, but none have been able to secure the job for the long term. Payton will likely look to bring in a quarterback through the draft or free agency who can lead the Saints into the future. Whether he sticks with Winston or seeks a new face under center remains to be seen, but Payton’s experience in developing quarterbacks will be key to this process.

Roster Overhaul

Payton’s previous success came from his ability to blend offensive innovation with strong defensive play. The Saints’ defense remains one of the most underrated units in the NFL, but Payton will need to find more pieces on offense to ensure the team’s long-term success. This includes rebuilding the offensive line, adding more playmakers at wide receiver, and finding a running back who can contribute both in the ground game and the passing game.

Payton has always prioritized balance, and with his background as an offensive mastermind, he will ensure the Saints’ offense can keep up with the best in the league.

Cap Management and Long-Term Success

The Saints have been operating in salary cap hell for years, with Loomis known for constantly restructuring contracts to free up space for immediate roster moves. Payton will need to balance the short-term and long-term needs of the team, ensuring that the Saints can remain competitive in the near future without saddling themselves with long-term financial problems.

The New Head Coach: A New Era Begins

Along with the appointment of Payton as General Manager, Gayle Benson has confirmed that the Saints will also hire a new head coach to guide the team on the field. While the identity of the new coach has yet to be disclosed, there are several strong candidates who could fit the Saints’ needs.

Given Payton’s extensive involvement in the process, it’s likely the new head coach will share his vision and be someone who complements Payton’s leadership style. Candidates like Eric Bieniemy (Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator) and Ben Johnson (Detroit Lions offensive coordinator) are both seen as potential fits, especially considering their offensive pedigree. The Saints will need a head coach who can help develop young talent, maximize the potential of their quarterback, and continue to build on the defensive foundation Payton helped establish during his tenure as head coach.

The appointment of a new head coach signals a fresh start for the Saints, with Payton at the helm of the front office and a new leader expected to take the reins on the field.

What This Means for the Future of the Saints

With Sean Payton taking over as General Manager and a new head coach on the horizon, the future of the New Orleans Saints has taken a significant turn. The team’s roster is filled with talent, but the leadership changes are crucial to unlock their full potential.

For Gayle Benson, this is a pivotal moment in the history of the franchise. The decision to move on from Mickey Loomis and Darren Rizzi signals her commitment to returning the Saints to championship contention. Under Payton’s stewardship, the franchise has a strong chance to rebound from its recent struggles and create a winning culture that will last for years to come.

While there is still much work to be done, Payton’s leadership, along with the hiring of a new head coach, gives the Saints a much-needed path to success. Fans in New Orleans can be optimistic about the future as the team embarks on a new era of promise and potential.

Gayle Benson’s bold decision to make changes at the top of the New Orleans Saints’ hierarchy signals the beginning of a new era for the franchise. With Sean Payton returning to the organization as General Manager and a new head coach expected to be announced shortly, the Saints are poised for a fresh start. This move comes after years of stagnation under Mickey Loomis and Darren Rizzi, and the hope is that Payton’s leadership can restore the Saints to their Super Bowl-winning ways. The next few seasons will be crucial, but for now, the future of the Saints looks brighter than it has in years.

New Orleans Saints

Derek Carr Blasted by Saints fan ahead of impending Departure from New Orleans

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Derek Carr Blasted by Saints fan ahead of impending Departure from New Orleans

New Orleans Saints fans aren’t thrilled with Derek Carr after a recent report about a shoulder injury mentioned he could miss the 2025 season. Some fans view this as Carr simply not wanting to mentor or compete with whichever quarterback New Orleans takes in the draft.

While former linebacker Scott Shanle put Carr on blast for being thin-skinned, he’s not the only one lashing out at Carr. A Saints fan recently put together a playlist on Apple Music that’s dedicated to Carr eventually leaving the franchise.

Saints fan creates playlist titled ‘Derek Carr Gone’

The playlist kicks off with the 1969 classic “Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye” by Steam and then transitions to 2004’s “Leave (Get Out)” by JoJo. The message there is crystal clear.

The messages get a little more cryptic from there with the next song being “Get TF Out of My Face” by Rich Homie Quan and then “Can I Trade Him In” by Beccy Cole. There’s no mixing up what those songs are supposed to mean here.

It’s understandable why Saints fans are upset with Carr. He hasn’t been the kind of player that the team and fans were hoping for when they signed him to the four-year $140 million contract two years ago and this injury saga is a frustrating situation. Not putting any of the blame on the Saints for giving him that deal in the first place, however, seems misguided. They could have tried to fix their salary cap situation but opted to continue kicking the can down the road and now… Here they are.

If the Saints knew all along they wanted to potentially draft a quarterback, perhaps they should have let Carr test the market (as he reportedly was considering doing) rather than restructuring his deal and keeping him locked into his contract for 2025.

This situation is beyond frustrating for sure but it’s not all on Derek Carr. That being said, fans are allowed to react negatively to the news and be ready for Carr to eventually leave the team. This won’t be the last petty thing we see happen regarding this situation.

 

 

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Dramatic twist as New Orleans Saints face potential season crisis without star quarterback Derek Carr

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Dramatic twist as New Orleans Saints face potential season crisis without star quarterback Derek Carr

A season of uncertainty unfolds as the Saints grapple with the looming prospect of playing without their star quarterback. The potential absence of Derek Carr for an extended period sends ripples of concern throughout the team and its loyal supporters.

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Shifting Tides on the Field

The prospect of a long absence for a leader like Derek Carr injects a layer of complexity into the Saints’ season. As the team faces this unexpected challenge, every practice session and game becomes a battleground for resilience and innovation. Carr’s role has been far more than just directing offensive plays—it has been his presence that instilled confidence in his teammates and energized the stadium.

Strategic and Tactical Implications

Without Carr’s steady hand, the Saints are forced to reevaluate their game plan. Coaches and players are now tasked with reimagining offensive strategies that can withstand the pressures of high-stakes competition. This recalibration involves not only revisiting established plays but also nurturing the potential of emerging talents who have long stood in the quarterback’s shadow. The situation demands flexibility, both in thought and execution, as the team adapts to the evolving dynamics on the gridiron.

Legacy and Leadership

Derek Carr’s influence transcends statistics and on-field performance; his leadership has become synonymous with the team’s identity. Known for his cool demeanor under pressure and his ability to orchestrate critical drives, Carr’s presence has been a unifying force in the locker room. The looming absence poses a dual challenge: maintaining the momentum of the offensive unit and preserving the spirit of leadership that Carr has so deftly cultivated. The sense of urgency now permeates every practice session and game, as the team seeks to uphold the legacy of resilience and determination that defines its core.

Looking Forward with Resolve

While the potential crisis looms large, it also opens the door for innovation and renewed determination within the Saints’ camp. New opportunities arise for other players to step forward, proving that the strength of a team isn’t measured by one individual alone, but by the collective resolve to rise in adversity. The upcoming weeks promise to test the mettle of the entire squad, pushing them to harness unforeseen reserves of talent and continue the fight with unwavering spirit.

As the season unfolds against this challenging backdrop, the narrative becomes one of adaptation and hope. The story of the Saints will be defined not only by the trials they face but also by the unity and innovation that emerge in the face of adversity—a reminder that true strength is often forged in the crucible of uncertainty.

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Former Saints OL Ryan Ramczyk Emotional Farewell Letter Following Retirement Announcement

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Former Saints OL Ryan Ramczyk Emotional Farewell Letter Following Retirement Announcement

The three-time All-Pro is walking away after eight seasons.

Former New Orleans Saints offensive lineman Ryan Ramczyk announced his retirement from the NFL on Thursday night, closing the book on an eight-year career. A 2017 first-round pick out of Wisconsin, Ramczyk started 101 games he played in the Bayou and was named an All-Pro three times. He missed the entirety of the 2024 season with a knee injury.

He penned the following emotional letter, which he posted to his Instagram account, announcing his decision:

“What an incredible journey it’s been. My path to the NFL wasn’t a straight line, it wasn’t the story most people expect. There were moments when people doubted me, moments when I doubted myself. It’s funny how life works out. Sometimes the road less traveled leads to places you never expected, but it ends up being exactly where you were meant to be. Today I reflect on all the twists and turns that got me to this point, from technical college to become a “welder” to All-Pro in the NFL. As I step into retirement, I’m filled with gratitude for everything this sport has given me.

“I owe a giant thank you to the game of football, and to the countless coaches and teammates who have supported and challenged me along the way. I’m especially thankful to UW-Stevens Point for welcoming me with open arms, to UW-Madison for taking a chance on a Division III transfer, and to the New Orleans Saints for believing in me at the highest level.

“To the amazing New Orleans Saints fans. Thank you for embracing me from day one. Your passion and energy are unmatched, you made New Orleans feel like home.

“To my incredible wife, thank you for being my rock through every high and low. And to my parents, who instilled in me the meaning of hard work and dedication.

“I’m excited for what the future holds, especially the opportunity to spend more time with my two boys and watch them grow. I’m looking forward to this next chapter in life and am forever grateful. Who Dat for life ⚜️”

The Saints, under new head coach Kellen Moore, are set up with the No. 9 pick in the first round of next Thursday’s NFL draft. As part of a yearly NFL tradition, Ramczyk is set to announce New Orleans’ second and third-round picks on Friday night.

 

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INCOMING: Saints To Seal Blockbuster Trade For Ideal Derek Carr Successor

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INCOMING: Saints To Seal Blockbuster Trade For Ideal Derek Carr Successor

The New Orleans Saints desperately need to add a quarterback this offseason and it seems like they’re eyeing Colorado signal caller Shedeur Sanders with the No. 9 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. But there could be a problem.

Sanders is seen as the second-best quarterback in the draft, so there’s a good chance he’s off the board by the time the Saints land on the clock. New Orleans might need to trade up if it wants to be sure it lands the captivating star.

Lou Scataglia of NFL Spinzone recently predicted the Saints would swing a blockbuster draft-day trade with the New England Patriots to move from pick No. 9 to pick No. 4 in the first round of the NFL Draft. With the No. 4 pick, Scataglia predicts the Saints will select the aforementioned Sanders.

“With Derek Carr’s 2025 status now in jeopardy, the New Orleans Saints make a major move and trade up five slots with the New England Patriots to secure Shedeur Sanders,” Scataglia wrote. “If nothing else, the Saints finally begin the process of building for the future.”

A trade like this would likely cost the Saints a lot of draft capital. But if New Orleans wants to be sure it lands the prospect that it wants, it’s the price of doing business.

Staying at No. 9 would be quite risky, especially with teams like the Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Los Angeles Rams potentially looking to trade up and undercut the Saints to steal Sanders.

 

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Derek Carr’s future in doubt as New Orleans Saints weigh hefty $150M investment against uncertain quarterback fate

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Derek Carr’s future in doubt as New Orleans Saints weigh hefty $150M investment against uncertain quarterback fate

In the high-stakes arena of the NFL, decisions made in the boardroom can echo on the field in dramatic fashion, leaving both fans and analysts pondering the future of key players.

A Bold Investment and Its Implications

The New Orleans Saints have taken a significant gamble, investing a staggering $150 million with the expectation that their quarterback will lead the team forward. This substantial commitment initially painted a picture of long-term trust and opportunity for the quarterback. Yet, behind the hefty price tag lies a challenging question: will he ever see the field under the Saints’ banner again?

The Uncertainty of a Quarterback’s Career

Despite the financial signals that suggested a bright future, uncertainty now clouds his position. The decision-making process within the organization reflects the complex interplay between past performance, evolving team dynamics, and the unpredictable nature of on-field competition. The quarterback’s future, once assumed to be secure, remains shrouded in doubt as the team reconsiders the path forward amidst changing circumstances.

Historical Context and Team Strategy

Historically, teams have relied on high-profile investments as both a show of confidence and a foundation for rebuilding their rosters. The Saints’ decision fits within this broader narrative of audacious moves to capture victory. However, the current situation illustrates that even well-intentioned decisions can lead to unforeseen uncertainties. The interplay between financial commitment and actual performance highlights the risks inherent in the sport, where each play carries both the potential for triumph and the possibility of regret.

Reflecting on the Future of a Franchise

At its core, the situation serves as a reminder that in professional sports, financial strategies are as volatile as they are ambitious. The uncertainty surrounding the quarterback’s future invites broader reflection on team building and the balance between immediate performance and long-term vision. The Saints find themselves at a crossroads, one that forces both management and fans to question whether large investments can truly secure success on the field.

Looking Ahead with Cautious Optimism

As the season unfolds, the implications of this heavy investment will reveal themselves in due time. The broader narrative is one of risk and reward, setting the stage for a season that might redefine not only a player’s career but also the strategic direction of the franchise. In the intricate game of football, lessons from such bold moves remind us that while money can buy opportunity, the unpredictable nature of the sport ensures that every snap remains an open chapter in an evolving story.

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